Having A Ball

Bowling Event To Help Recovery Center In Pines

August 9, 2009|By Chris Guanche Staff Writer

Residents can knock down pins to help a women's recovery center at an upcoming event.

Pembroke Pines-based Susan B. Anthony Recovery Center will be hosting its 2nd Annual Rock N' Bowl-A-Thon from noon to 3 p.m. Sept. 12 at Sparez Bowling Center, 5325 S. University Drive in Davie. While it's typical for nonprofits to host golf tournaments or gala dinners as fundraisers, the bowling tournament is aiming for a different audience.

"We wanted a family event," said Heather Keir, who sits on the center's board of directors and planned the event.

Keir said no one knew what to expect during last year's event. The first event featured 32 teams, but this year it's expected to draw in 64 teams and take up every lane at Sparez.

As a fundraiser, the bowl-a-thon helps during troubled economic times, said Sandy Harnick, the center's development director. As a nonprofit, the center depends on funding from state, county and local governments - all of which are handing out less money as they seek to cut their budgets.

Harnick said last year's event raised about $25,000. With more teams and lanes open this time, Harnick said they're hoping to raise $35,000.

Harnick said the center, faced with a decrease in funds, was trying to be more efficient without cutting services. But even with a waiting list, the center, which assists women with substance addictions, doesn't have enough funding to fill its living spaces. But an influx of cash could help in providing service.

"The $35,000 could mean hiring another therapist," Harnick said.

Bowlers who want to buy their way into the game can do so in two ways: A company can buy a space for a four-person team for $400, or individuals can sign up for $100. Harnick said individuals are encouraged to find sponsors who can fund their entry into the game.

With corporate sponsors also feeling the economic crunch, Keir said the event's structure is beneficial for both sides - a company can send employees as a team and not pay as much as with other events.

"If you have an event that's less expensive, you can draw in more people," she said.

Scores will be tracked throughout the day. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams and top three individual players. The event also will feature a raffle and silent auction filled with items geared toward children, such as toy baskets and gift certificates.

"It's something that you could bring your kids to on a Saturday afternoon," Keir said.

For more information, visit www.susanbanthony center.org or call 954-592- 6925.